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Holiday Cleaning Checklist

Posted on by Angie

‘Tis the Season to frenzy clean. Guests are coming for the holidays and it’s time to face the facts, those baseboards and ceiling fans aren’t going to clean themselves… Use this checklist and get a jump on some of that Holiday cleaning!

Around the House:

First, de-clutter. It’s time to work your way through that stack of mail on the counter and those shoes in the corner. Once everything is in it’s place, cleaning will go much faster.

Door knobs, door frames,  switch plates and hand rails. If you have kids, do not underestimate the amount of grime that can accumulate in these areas. A quick wipe down with an all purpose cleaner should make them as good as new.

Dust. Dry and wet dust all surfaces to get rid of that unwanted pet hair and make your furniture shine. Bonus for those with allergies that will be visiting.

Clean windows. Give those windows and glass doors a good cleaning to rid them of hand prints and dog slobber. Warm soapy water is great for wiping down around the window sills, inside and out.

Bathrooms:

Pay special attention to those shower doors and mirrors.

Kitchen:

Wipe down all appliances.

Tackle the Fridge. Toss expired condiments, wipe down shelves and get rid of those unwanted leftovers. Chances are you’re going to need as much space as possible once you start your cooking.

Living Room:

Spot Clean your carpet and rugs: Check for any stains that might stand out in your well-lit room, but beware of light colored carpets. If it is deeply soiled, a spot-clean will leave a reverse stain: a big clean spot in a sea of dingy carpet. If this is the case it might be best to get the whole thing professionally cleaned ahead of time.

Fluff pillows and sofa cushions.

Bedrooms:

Make Beds. If you’re having over night guests, make sure beds are made with fresh clean sheets and pillows to create an inviting feel for your family and friends.

Our Sponsor:

Stanley Steemer provides professional deep cleaning services including carpet, tile & grout, upholstery, hardwood and air ducts. We also provide water restoration services.

Stanley Steemer of North Central Alabama services the greater Birmingham Metro Area and surrounding counties, spanning from Cullman to Clanton and from the Mississippi state line to the Georgia state line.

Stanley Steemer is the first carpet cleaning service certified asthma & allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, removing an average of 94% of common household allergens from carpet. 24/7 scheduling available!

Use Code: Mom30 for $30 off any service. (Minimum charges apply)

 

 

Win an Aviate Prize Pack!

Posted on by Angie

Our Giveaways to Giftaway Promotion is BACK!!

Play Hard, Travel Often!

For millions of travelers, the three-letter airport codes assigned to major cities instantly evoke the memories of journeys past, the anticipation of adventure ahead, or the satisfaction of heading home once business is done.

Aviate is built on that idea of community.

The Giveaway:

1 Aviate Prize pack, includes Black BHM hat and Aviate Bag.

How to Enter:

LIKE, COMMENT and SHARE our Facebook post for a chance to win.
(Winner will be drawn on Wednesday, November 29th)

Make sure to hit up the Aviate Website for some great gift ideas sure to make some peeps on your shopping list Happy Happy.. and Stylish too!

Brrrmingham! Ice Skating at Railroad Park

Posted on by Angie

Ice Skating returns to Railroad park this weekend with Red Diamond Coffee and Tea presenting, Brrrmingham!

The 50’ by 80’ rink has 500 more square feet than last year’s rink, creating a roomier skating experience. Just as last year, the rink will be positioned on the brick surface on Railroad Park’s Regions Bank 17th Street Plaza. The rink opens Saturday, November 25 and will remain open seven days a week through January 1, only closing on Christmas Day.

Hours of operation for the rink are 11am to 9pm Sunday through Thursday, 10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday.

Tickets including skate rental cost $12 for adults, $10 for children under 12 and may be purchased at the rink. Tickets are valid for the entire day. Individuals are welcome to bring their own skates. The group rate for 20 or more skaters is $9 per person. Season passes are available, as well.

“When a guy proposed to his girlfriend on the first day the rink was open last year, we knew we had something special,” said Camille Spratling, Executive Director, Railroad Park Foundation. “The community really made us a part of their traditions. People had their birthday parties here and their holiday parties. It was a treat to see everyone come together in a new way here at Railroad Park. Thanks to everyone’s support, we’re able to bring the rink back even bigger this year, with enhancements on and off the ice to create a more memorable experience.”

“Ice skating in Railroad Park will be a holiday tradition for years to come, and we are proud to be a part of that tradition,” said Bill Bowron, President and CEO of Red Diamond Coffee and Tea. “We’re big fans of anything that brings people together like this. When we consider our region’s revitalization over the last decade, we speak in terms of business development and job growth.
But we also speak of enhanced quality of life that spreads throughout our communities. An outdoor ice rink inside an award-winning green space in the middle of the city is a tangible reminder of the growth around us.”

The Boxcar Cafe will be open, serving warm and delicious meals to anyone joining in the fun this winter, as well as hot Red Diamond coffee. Homemade, secret recipe hot chocolate and white hot chocolate top the drinks menu, along with classic hot apple cider and Red Diamond tea. Hot entrees like chicken & sausage gumbo, chili, and Creole pimento grilled cheese will keep skaters warm off the rink. New this year, the Boxcar Café will serve breakfast on weekends, including breakfast sandwiches, shrimp and grits, and grits bowls filled with a choice of Conecuh sausage, cheese, and eggs. In addition to the Boxcar, on Saturdays various Birmingham food trucks will serve at Railroad Park.

In partnership with the Pelham Ice Rink, there will be free ice skating lessons each Saturday morning and skating demonstrations each Sunday afternoon. Every Wednesday from 11am to 1pm is the Viva Health Lunch Break Skate, with $2 off each ticket for those who join in for a midday skate. Every Monday will be Mommy & Me and Daddy & Me at the rink, with $2 off the price of a ticket for parents skating with children. Follow Railroad Park on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates on additional special events throughout the season.

Party packages are available for birthday parties, holiday parties, and corporate gatherings at the rink. To schedule an event or book group tickets, call Railroad Park’s office at 205.521.9933 or email events@railroadpark.org.

Reduce Stress During the Holiday Season

Posted on by Grace A

It is that busy time of year! Most experts agree that holidays make people feel out of control. Visiting family, attending parties, shopping, and holiday activities can take its toll on a person, so I have put together 7 ways to de-stress and cope with this seasons festivities:

  1. Figure out the main cause of your stress and anxiety. A lot of the time we are running around to different things only to return home feeling deflated and empty. Narrowing down the biggest stressors coming our way will help us be better prepared to deal with them and keep the stress under control while also enjoying ourselves.
  2. Try something new. If going to the usual family party is too overwhelming suggest new options like new venues or new traditions to change things up and keep family from the same old yearly frustrations.
  3. DON’T think about how it should have been! Almost every year I think of how everything could have been better and stress over something that is too late to fix. I compare myself to others photos and experiences and get down on myself for not meeting the mark. Most people do not have the perfect holiday and those that do usually simplified everything. Do what feels good and fun to you and be happy with it.
  4. DON’T OVER DO IT!! I wish I could scream this at myself every October. I always want to top myself from the year before and by January I am so worn out and grouchy I promise myself next year will be better. It’s a vicious circle. Simplify your schedules and activities. Spend more time with family just enjoying each other without all the jazz. It really does make a huge difference in my attitude and feelings on the holidays. SO much joy is found in simplicity.
  5. Do something you love that is not holiday related. Reading a book, organizing a closet, or making a favorite meal can bring you back to normal life make a huge difference in your happiness. It may sound crazy but when you feel out of control organizing something like a drawer or bag can return those feelings of control and peace. Taking control and making time for something you love works too. I always feel so much more like myself when I do something that I love outside of my holiday to-do list.
  6. Get some exercise. This is a go to of mine all year round but especially around November and December. Getting some fresh air or taking a class at the gym helps me clear my mind of all the things weighing me down. I literally feel like a weight has been lifted on my shoulders after 30 minutes or so of exercise.
    1. A side note to this one is –find your own calm- exercise doesn’t work for everyone but taking a bath after the kids are in bed or taking a scenic drive alone can have the same effects of exercise. Do what works for you.
  1. Take deep calming breaths of citrus. Researchers have found that citrus and other fragrances boost a sense of calm and happiness, reducing stress and bettering our moods. Keep a handkerchief or cloth with oils in your pocket or buy a candle that soothes you for the end of the day.

Remember what the holidays are really about and make that the focus of your to do list.

About Grace:

Grace was born and brought up in Bessemer, Alabama but has a great love for exploring new places. She has been married for 8 years and has 3 kids, expecting number 4 in December. Having been  a student off and on for the last 10 years she is excited to say that she is finally graduating from BYU-Idaho with a degree in Marriage and Family Counseling this year. She loves to learn and share what she learns with as many people as possible. Strengthening and encouraging positive relationships with couples and families is a life goal and passion. Her biggest hobby is her family and finding new and fun ways to accomplish the above life goal in her home.

Thanksgiving Family Games

Posted on by Grace A

One of our favorite things to do after stuffing our faces on Thanksgiving Day is to play games together as a family. Here are some of our favorites that make us laugh the hardest and create the best memories!

Shake Your Tail Feather

Supplies:

2 Tissue boxes

Craft feathers

2 pairs of panty hose

tape

Empty out a tissue box for each team. Tape the tissue box to the middle of a pair of hose so that once they are tied around someone’s waist the box sits in the middle of their back. Fill the box with feathers. Time for one minute and whichever team shakes out the most feathers WINS!

 

Face the Pie

Supplies:

A pie tin for each team

Whipped cream

Gummy letters (or any other kind of the letters that are available)

Spell out thanksgiving words such as turkey, feast, family, etc. in different pie tins. One letter per pie tin. Make sure each team has the same amount of letters. Fill each tin with whipped cream. Each player races through their set of pie tins to put together their word using only their mouth. First person to unscramble their word wins!

 

Corn to Copia

Supplies:

A large fake cornucopia for each team

Blindfold

A bucket of plastic or stuffed corn

One person is blindfolded and holds the cornucopia about 10 feet away from their partner. The partner takes the bucket of corn and hikes it football style towards their cornucopia holding partner. The blindfolded person must try to catch as much corn as they can before time runs out.

Make memories together and Happy Thanksgiving!!!

About Grace:

Grace was born and brought up in Bessemer, Alabama but has a great love for exploring new places. She has been married for 8 years and has 3 kids, expecting number 4 in December. Having been  a student off and on for the last 10 years she is excited to say that she is finally graduating from BYU-Idaho with a degree in Marriage and Family Counseling this year. She loves to learn and share what she learns with as many people as possible. Strengthening and encouraging positive relationships with couples and families is a life goal and passion. Her biggest hobby is her family and finding new and fun ways to accomplish the above life goal in her home.

Holiday Happenings around Birmingham

Posted on by Angie

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And there are so many fun events happening in Birmingham to get you in the Holiday Spirit! Mark your calendars for all of this Family Friendly Fun!

Holiday Happenings In Birmingham

Lights Up at the Summit

Stop by and make a fun holiday craft with BirminghamMommy as we help the Summit Light Up for the Holidays, Friday, November 17th from 5pm – 8pm.

Lights Up at The Summit is our annual kick-off to the holiday season! We’ll be sitting with friends and family listening to a live concert, watching the parade and fireworks, then ending the evening with The Summit all lit up for the holidays!

Schedule of Events

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops

Santa Photos, crafts and special events happening through December 24th for a full schedule of activities and more information on getting a Bass Pass for your Santa Photo visit their site!

North Pole Express at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

“All Aboard” says the conductor, and your family’s journey begins to the North Pole! Through the dark night, the magical train makes its way to the top of the world!  Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves board the train to visit with your family and give each child a keepsake! Be sure to bring your camera to get a photo of your family with Santa and Mrs. Claus! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies, sing Christmas songs, and listen to a special Christmas Story! The North Pole Express will make lasting Christmas memories for you and your family! For even more fun, be sure to wear your pajamas!

Coach Class $27
C&NW – A End (Live Entertainer) $37
First Class $47
Infant (0-24 months) Free

Kicking off November 17th, and running each weekend through December 16th. For a full schedule of rides and times, visit our Events Calendar

Holidays at McWane

Back for its 10th year in a row, the Magic of Model Trains returns to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours!

Polar Express PJ Party, December 9th and 10th

Join us for a journey beyond your imagination aboard the Polar Express! Slip on your PJs and visit with Santa over a cup of hot cocoa and cookies. Then it’s time to “believe” as you experience Polar Express on the IMAX Dome. A special keepsake will be given to all children 12 and under who wear their pajamas.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

Jingle Bell Breakfast December 9th

Time: Breakfast @ 8:30 – 9:30 am, IMAX @ 9:30 am

Pricing: $30 Adults (13+) | $25 Child (2-12) | Members Receive $5 Off

Bring your little elves for a Merry Morning at McWane! Head to the North Pole where you will enjoy a hot holiday breakfast, make festive crafts, and have a very special visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! When breakfast is over, take a ride down the slide and head to the IMAX Dome for a private showing of Santa vs. the Snowman. Ticket includes same day admission. Make your reservation today for this family favorite holiday event.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

Shadracks Christmas Wonderland

Christmas light and music extravaganza, over 3 miles long… with festive lights dancing to jolly tunes and comical displays.

Birmingham Race Course
Opens November 17th and runs until January 7th.
Open from dusk until 10pm nightly

STARS Presents A Charlie Brown Christmas

When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism he sees among everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but this proves to be a frustrating endeavor. When an attempt to restore the proper holiday spirit with a forlorn little Christmas fir tree fails, he needs Linus’ help to discover the real meaning of Christmas.

STARS (Students Take A Role at the Samford) was created to give every child the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and supportive arts environment. By offering classes in conjunction with productions, our children are able to apply what they have learned in a hands-on and collaborative environment.

Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Student
November 16th, 7:30pm

Holiday Film Series at the Alabama Theatre

Always a family favorite, the Alabama Theatre will be hosting their Annual Film series again kicking off December 9th with White Christmas and running until December 22nd

Tickets for all movies are $8 each, with the exception of The Polar Express which is $12 and is a fundraiser for Kid One Transport. Children ages two and younger are free of charge. Doors open ninety minutes before showtime, and each screening will begin with a sing-along accompanied by the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ.

Click Here to see a full schedule of Movies

Brrrmingham! Ice Skating at Railroad Park

Brrrmingham, presented by Red Diamond Coffee and Tea, opens Saturday, November 25. The 50′ x 80′ rink will be open seven days a week through January 1, only closed on Christmas Day.

Hours of operation:
Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Want to warm up off the ice? The Boxcar Cafe will serve delicious cold weather fare at lunch and dinner, plus tasty breakfast items on weekends. The Boxcar’s housemade hot chocolate and white hot chocolate will round out the beverage menu of Red Diamond coffee, tea and specialty drinks.

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer the Musical

The beloved TV classic Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. Come see all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL.

BJCC Concert Hall, November 29th 7pm

Bluff Park Christmas Parade

Shades Cliff Pool
December 2, 10am

Homewood for the Holidays

The Homewood Christmas Parade will be held Tuesday, December 5, 2017. This year’s parade will feature the lighting of the Homewood Star on 18th Street as the parade enters Downtown Homewood. An emcee announcing parade entries and highlighting parade participants will be located at City Hall Plaza. Other activities at City Hall Plaza include the arrival of Santa Claus, music provided by the Homewood High School Band and the Lighting of the Christmas Tree at City Hall.

City Hall Plaza activities will feature:
• Homewood High School Band
• City Hall Christmas Tree Lighting
• And of course Santa Claus!!

Parade Route: The parade will begin at the Homewood Library and travel east on Oxmoor Road; turn left onto 18th Street South; travel under the Christmas Star; turn right onto 29th Avenue; turn left onto 19th Street; travel past City Hall turn left onto 28th Avenue; Travel to the intersection of 18th Street. Walking groups will be encouraged to turn left onto 18th Street and vehicles will have to continue straight thru the intersection toward Central Avenue.

Zoolight Safari at the Birmingham Zoo

Watch as the Zoo comes alive for 18 nights of holiday-centric fun at ZooLight Safari presented by Wells Fargo! Be amazed by over one million lights, listen to holiday music and delight in festive snowfalls every night! Enjoy a ride on the Shipt Candy Cane Ride*, go for a spin on the Jingle Bell Carousel*, experience the thrill of the over 100 foot Yuletide Slide*, ride the Santa Rollers* and so much more. Take in the beauty of a decorated tree reaching nearly 30 feet tall in Trails of Africa as you dance and boogie to special entertainment each night! New this year – enjoy a nightly (through December 23) performance plus meet and greets and photos with the Singing Santa!

Adult beverages will be available for purchase on Friday and Saturday nights. Enjoy a glass of beer or wine for a fun date-night at the Zoo!
*Requires ride ticket or wristband.

December 8th-10th, 15th-23rd, 26th -31st

Griffin Farms

Barnyard Christmas Bash! Craft vendors, live music, live nativity, FREE (with your own camera) PICTURES WITH SANTA, visits with Mrs. Clause, short perfomances from Joy’s Dance Company dance teams, food trucks, & so much more!

December 9th, 9am – 3pm

Cinderella an Outrageous Fairytale

Hold on to your pumpkins! This is a Cinderella for the holiday season. With contemporary songs, gags, and mayhem, you’ll jeer at the deliciously dysfunctional stepmother and sisters as much as you’ll cheer for Cinderella in her quest to attend the magnificent ball and fulfill her destiny. Put on your glass slippers, and enjoy this spectacular and outrageous telling of our unique Cinderella, guaranteed to delight.

“There were shrieks of delight, from the oldsters as well as from the youngsters.” –How Was the Show?

“With an inspired mix of slapstick and romance sprinkled with Victorian Christmas, how could you not fall in love with this Cinderella? (I did.)” –Pioneer Press

All Ages
December 9th, 2:30pm | Photos with Santa 1 hour before the show
December 10th, 2:30pm | Photos with Santa 1 hour before the show
December 16th, 2:30pm | Photos with Santa 1 hour before the show

Polar Express PJ Party at McWane

Join us for a journey beyond your imagination aboard the Polar Express! Slip on your PJs and visit with Santa over a cup of hot cocoa and cookies. Then it’s time to “believe” as you experience Polar Express on the IMAX Dome. A special keepsake will be given to all children 12 and under who wear their pajamas.

$20 | $5 discount for members

December 9th 2pm-4pm | IMAX @ 1:00 or 3:00 pm
December 10th 2pm-4pm | IMAX @ 1:00 or 3:00 pm

Alabama Wildlife Center’s Holiday Craft and Bake Sale Veteran’s Park, Hoover

Holiday-themed crafts and ornaments, handmade jewelry, gifts with a natural theme, jams, jellies, preserves, baked goods,frozen casseroles, and smoked meat. Visit with Santa, just in time for the holidays. All proceeds benefit the Alabama Wildlife Center. See AWC website & Facebook for updates and details: awrc.org.

Dec 9, 2017 at 09:00 am – 03:00 pm (Sat)

Holiday Happenings Near Birmingham

Christmas at the Cave at Desoto Caverns

Join DeSoto Caverns for the most magical time of the year. Come walk in a Winter “Underland” for a family-fun event for all ages. With holiday treats, classic Christmas movies, caroling and sing-a-longs, as well as a special visit from St. Nicholas himself, Christmas at the Cave at the majestic DeSoto Caverns is the best way for you and your family to spend the most wonderful time of the year.

December 15th, 16th, and 22nd, 23rd

Children’s Hands on Museum in Tuscaloosa

Candyland Breakfasts and Brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Saturday, December 2, 2017
Breakfast: 8 – 9:30 am
Breakfast 10-11:30
Brunch: 12 – 1:30 pm
$15 person
Museum members: $14 person
4 or more: $14 person
Bring your camera for pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
Join Santa and Mrs. Claus as they dance with Santa’s Elves, Elsa, Rudolph, and Frosty at the Reindeer Hop. Music by DJ Chuckie. Stay and play in museum exhibits, then make ornaments!
Pre-register NOW!
Phone reservations: Carla (205) 349-4235 x24
Email reservations: carla@chomonline.org

Santa Mouse
Saturday, December 9th, 2017
10am – 4pm

Make a Santa Mouse Ornament, special storytime readings of Santa Mouse

Holiday Hoopla
Saturday, December 16th
10am – 4pm

Make your way through ornament and gift creating stations all throughout CHOM! Then head over to the wrapping area and Wrap It Up!

Christmas Cow Party with Moosie
Saturday, December 23rd

Sing songs and carols, and Christmas stories and Holiday Tales with Riverboat John, renowned storyteller and musician. Special Cookies and Milk snack! Santa Cow Story and make a Santa Cow ornament.

New Year’s For Kids
Saturday, December 30th
10am – Noon

Balloon drop at 11am sharp! Hats, Horns, and Tiaras
“Champagne” Toast
Stay and play in the Museum until 4pm
All Activities included in price of admission!

Tinsel Trail in Tuscaloosa

This holiday season Tuscaloosa’s Riverwalk will be lit with 150 + live Christmas trees sponsored and decorated by local businesses, organizations, and individuals.

For more information visit their website

Have an Attitude of Gratitude

Posted on by Grace A

Gratitude is feelings of appreciation, or acts of thanksgiving, for benefits we have received. With Thanksgiving around the corner this is the perfect time to show gratitude for all we have. One of the best ways to show appreciation is by doing service for others. Here is a list of some easy but meaningful acts of service to show gratitude this month:

  1. Write thank you notes. This is a little time consuming but means so much to those who receive it. My kids love to get thank you cards in the mail after they send gifts to cousins who live far away. Writing them also gives us a chance to reflect on the love and appreciation we have for a specific person and remember how much they mean to us.
  2. Help a stranger. At least once throughout my day I come across someone who could use a little help at the grocery store, gas station, or park. We have put elderly peoples carts away for them, let someone with cranky kids ahead of us in line, and played with those at the park who were alone. It is never anything that disrupts our day but always leaves us with happy feelings after.
  3. Share your talents. I do not consider myself to be very talented but I love being on the receiving end of others gifts. Especially, this time of year there are many places looking for volunteers for musical talents and such. Share your gift!
  4. Donate to a charity. It doesn’t have to be a large sum to be meaningful. One of my kids saved up her money for a week and donated $5 to a local homeless shelter. It was a tiny donation but a great reminder of all we have. Also, donate items around your house that you no longer need such as clothes, shoes, blankets, etc.
  5. Volunteer. Spending time at a local food bank, animal shelter, crisis center, or even the health and welfare services office can give us great perspective into the lives of those less fortunate.
  6. Visit a hospital or home for the elderly. This can be a lonely time of year for those in assisted living and hospitals. Giving up a little bit of time during the week to visit with and entertain these individuals will brighten their day and help us appreciate our families more. One holiday I was not able to go home and spent a little time at a nursing home chatting with the sweet ladies who lived there. I thought I was making a difference in their day but really they made all the difference in mine and my lonely holiday away from family.
  7. Smile and say thank you. This one is by far the easiest and takes no time at all. With all the shopping and activities going on this time of year there are endless opportunities to offer those who serve us a smile and a thank you.

Do your best, be sincere, but most importantly show gratitude as a family!

About Grace:

Grace was born and brought up in Bessemer, Alabama but has a great love for exploring new places. She has been married for 8 years and has 3 kids, expecting number 4 in December. Having been  a student off and on for the last 10 years she is excited to say that she is finally graduating from BYU-Idaho with a degree in Marriage and Family Counseling this year. She loves to learn and share what she learns with as many people as possible. Strengthening and encouraging positive relationships with couples and families is a life goal and passion. Her biggest hobby is her family and finding new and fun ways to accomplish the above life goal in her home.

The Friday Five: Top Picks for Weekend Fun Nov. 17th – Nov. 19th

Posted on by Angie

The Holiday Happenings are heating up and several things kick off this weekend to get you in the spirit! Check out all of the fun going on around the Magic City this weekend and make sure to stop by and say “hi” tonight at the Summit!

  • Lights Up at the Summit

Join BirminghamMommy and others as we help Summit Light Up for the Holidays!

Lights Up at The Summit is the annual kick-off to the holiday season! Sit with friends and family listening to a live concert, watching the parade and fireworks, then ending the evening with The Summit all lit up for the holidays!

Be sure to stop by the American Family Care Photobooth, located near the Kendra Scott Terrace, for free photobooth fun! Santa will be there pre-parade (5-6 PM) and post parade/fireworks (7-8 PM.) Photos will be on a first-come, first-served basis. BirminghamMommy will be there with crafts for the kids! For a full schedule of events, visit this post

Friday 5pm – 8pm

Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party at the BJCC

The all new Sesame Street Live! is headed to the Magic City and everyone is invited to take part in the sunniest and funniest street celebration in Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party!

Sesame Workshop features favorite Sesame Street pals Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and more in a brand-new sensory adventure live on stage.

Friday, 6pm
Saturday, 10:30am

  • Kevin Spencer Magic at Alys Stephens Center

Kevin Spencer is an illusionist and artist who believes in creating inclusive communities where everyone experiences an authentic sense of belonging and no one – for any reason – is relegated to the margins. He is an Educator, Teaching Artist, Researcher, Consultant, Speaker, Curriculum Designer, and award-winning Film Producer. He is also a world-renowned Illusionist with dozens of accolades to his credit and is widely considered the leading authority on the educational and therapeutic benefits of magic tricks in education and rehabilitation.

A Sensory-Friendly performance designed to accommodate individuals on the autism spectrum is available.

Programs and times subject to change.

Friday, 5pm – 7pm

  • Holidays at McWane

Kicking off this weekend for the Holidays! Holidays at McWane! Back for its 10th year in a row, the Magic of Model Trains returns to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours!

Opening Friday, November 17th and running through January 7th
Free with Admission

  • STARS Presents A Charlie Brown Christmas at Virginia Samford Theatre

When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism he sees among everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests that he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but this proves to be a frustrating endeavor. When an attempt to restore the proper holiday spirit with a forlorn little Christmas fir tree fails, he needs Linus’ help to discover the real meaning of Christmas.

STARS (Students Take A Role at the Samford) was created to give every child the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe and supportive arts environment. By offering classes in conjunction with productions, our children are able to apply what they have learned in a hands-on and collaborative environment.

Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Student

Friday, 7:30pm
Saturday, 11am and 7:30pm
Sunday, 2:30pm
For even more events happening this weekend and beyond, make sure to visit our EVENTS CALENDAR

Holidays at McWane

Posted on by Angie

Back for its 10th year in a row, the Magic of Model Trains returns to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours!

Polar Express PJ Party, December 9th and 10th

Join us for a journey beyond your imagination aboard the Polar Express! Slip on your PJs and visit with Santa over a cup of hot cocoa and cookies. Then it’s time to “believe” as you experience Polar Express on the IMAX Dome. A special keepsake will be given to all children 12 and under who wear their pajamas.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

Jingle Bell Breakfast December 9th

Time: Breakfast @ 8:30 – 9:30 am, IMAX @ 9:30 am

Pricing: $30 Adults (13+) | $25 Child (2-12) | Members Receive $5 Off

Bring your little elves for a Merry Morning at McWane! Head to the North Pole where you will enjoy a hot holiday breakfast, make festive crafts, and have a very special visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! When breakfast is over, take a ride down the slide and head to the IMAX Dome for a private showing of Santa vs. the Snowman. Ticket includes same day admission. Make your reservation today for this family favorite holiday event.

Click Here to Purchase Tickets

 

 

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at the Birmingham Race Course

Posted on by Angie

Shardrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at the Birmingham Race Course!

There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with miles of lights and Christmas music blaring in your car!

See over 3.25 miles of custom made displays dance to the music played over the radio in your car in perfect synchronization! Also, see Santa and his pals like you’ve never seen them…On vacation! The all-new Santa’s beach party theme features custom built, giant, all-led displays! They are guaranteed to delight everyone from young to old!

Pre-purchase your discount ticket exclusively at your local Piggly Wiggly Birmingham store! Click HERE for participating store locations!

Nov 17th through Jan 7th! Every night including holidays!

M-F: Dusk – 10PM
Sat-Sunday: Dusk-10PM or Later
Including Holidays, even in the rain!

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are very popular nights to visit the lights show. Because of this, long lines should be expected and wait times can be long. Please visit Mondays – Thursdays if you’re looking  to avoid extended wait times.

Admission:

Cars or Family Vans:   $25
Activity Van, Limo, or Mini/Half Bus:   $40
Tour/School Bus:   $80
Tickets are purchased on-site from the comfort of your own vehicle.  We accept cash and credit cards!

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